When it comes to financing your vehicle, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the purchase and opt for convenience by financing at the dealership. However, exploring refinancing options after the fact can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. By refinancing your dealership auto loan with Benchmark Federal Credit Union, you may be able to secure a lower interest rate, leading to substantial savings and a host of other benefits.
Why Refinance Your Dealership Auto Loan?
One of the main reasons auto loan interest rates may be higher at a dealership is that the dealer might mark up the rate when connecting you with a lender. By refinancing with a credit union, such as Benchmark FCU, you cut out the middleman and work directly with a financial institution that has your best interests in mind. Credit unions are known for their competitive interest rates, allowing you to reduce the overall cost of your loan and save money on interest payments.
Refinance Your Dealership Auto Loan with a Credit Union
Beyond the lower interest rate, refinancing your dealership auto loan with a credit union can provide additional advantages. One notable benefit is the potential savings on gap insurance. Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on your vehicle and its actual cash value in the event of theft or total loss. Dealerships often include gap insurance in their financing packages at a higher cost. However, credit unions usually offer more affordable and competitive rates for gap insurance, allowing you to save even more.
A perfect example of this; while the average cost of GAP insurance at the dealer is $1,000, the cost for GAP insurance at Benchmark FCU is only $300. When you add the savings on GAP insurance into potential savings in interest, you can be talking about a significant sum of money.
It’s Not Too Late to Refinance Your Auto Loan
Remembering that an auto loan involves more than just the interest rate is essential. Some dealerships may increase the loan term to make your monthly payment appear more manageable, but this ultimately leads to paying more interest over time. Refinancing with a credit union ensures you’re getting a fair loan term that aligns with your financial goals. Credit unions prioritize member satisfaction, offering personalized loan terms tailored to your specific needs.
If you’re currently in the market for an auto loan, it’s wise to compare lenders before heading to the dealership. Credit unions provide competitive rates and flexible terms, giving you the opportunity to find the best deal. By exploring your options ahead of time, you can make an informed decision that will save you money over the life of your loan.
Even if you’ve already purchased and financed your vehicle through the dealership, there is always time to refinance through your credit union. By taking advantage of lower interest rates and favorable terms, you can lower your monthly payments, reduce the overall cost of your loan, and free up extra cash for other financial goals.
Refinance and Save!
Refinancing your auto loan at Benchmark FCU can be a smart financial move that can unlock substantial savings. By eliminating the dealer markup, securing a lower interest rate, and exploring affordable gap insurance options, you can reduce your monthly payments, pay less interest over time, and save money. Even if you have already financed through a dealership, it’s never too late to explore the benefits of refinancing with a credit union. Take control of your finances, unlock savings, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a lower interest rate.